mpp9
Registered User
- Dec 5, 2010
- 32,616
- 5,074
That is kind of my problem generally with the whole 'step up' thing.
There aren't a ton of guys who you can count on to always score that big goal. Fortunately we have several.
But the Jussi Jokinen's of the world? You can count on them to score consistently in an inconsistent fashion. Over a period of time they will get you the goals, but they are secondary scoring. You count on them to score at a particular time at your peril. And Neal you have to put closer to that category than in the step up category.
Which is fine if you do not expect him to be the former rather than the latter. He is not paid as such either. Instead of $5 million he would be closer to $10 million if he were. As long as that is the case, I think that the criticism is more unreasonable expectations rather than fault.
It is water under the bridge, but I do want to emphasize the general point that most players are not the step up variety, and you need those on your roster to win as well as the step up kind like Crosby and Malkin, and even Letang. Just do not put them in that category and you will not be disappointed.
I honestly hope PH is as good as I think he'll be here, and we don't discuss Neal anymore b/c it's just a fundamental difference of opinion when it comes to expectations for a player. I think our highest paid winger should have produced more than he did in big games. And gave a more consistent effort in moving his feet and going to the net. Like Kunitz.
Seeing as this is a Spaling thread, I'll just shut up.